Cost Manager - Occupier & Portfolio Projects

Experienced Cost Manager with expertise in corporate real estate, workplace fit-out, capital improvements, portfolio programs, and occupier projects. Proven ability to deliver cost certainty, commercial oversight, procurement strategies, and financial control across multiple projects and client portfolios. Skilled in budgeting, forecasting, contract administration, change management, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with client business objectives.
Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced and client-focused Cost Manager to support the successful delivery of Occupier and Portfolio projects across Mexico.
The successful candidate will be responsible for managing all aspects of cost planning, estimating, procurement, commercial management, and financial reporting for workplace, office, fit-out, renovation, and portfolio management projects. This role requires strong analytical capabilities, commercial acumen, and the ability to collaborate with clients, consultants, contractors, and project teams across multiple concurrent projects.
The ideal candidate will have experience supporting occupier clients, corporate real estate portfolios, workplace transformation initiatives, and capital project programs, ensuring effective cost management throughout the project lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities
Cost Planning & Estimating
Prepare feasibility estimates, budgets, and detailed cost plans throughout all project phases.
Develop and maintain project budgets, forecasting costs and identifying potential financial risks.
Review drawings, specifications, and project requirements to prepare quantity take-offs and cost analyses.
Conduct benchmarking exercises using market data and historical project costs.
Prepare and present cost reports and recommendations to project stakeholders and clients.
Support business case development and investment decision-making through accurate cost forecasting.
Procurement & Contract Management
Support procurement activities, including preparation of tender documentation, bid analysis, vendor evaluations, and contract recommendations.
Participate in contractor and supplier negotiations to achieve optimal commercial outcomes.
Assist with the preparation, administration, and management of contracts.
Review contractor proposals, quotations, and commercial submissions for accuracy and compliance.
Ensure procurement activities align with client objectives, budget requirements, and project timelines.
Cost Control & Financial Management
Monitor project expenditures and maintain accurate cost tracking systems.
Manage change control processes and evaluate cost impacts resulting from scope modifications.
Review and validate payment applications, invoices, and contract variations.
Prepare monthly cost reports, cash flow forecasts, and financial updates.
Identify budget risks and recommend mitigation strategies to maintain financial performance.
Track commitments, expenditures, contingencies, and project forecasts throughout project execution.
Support final account negotiations and project financial closeout activities.
Portfolio & Program Management
Support the management of multiple projects simultaneously within a client portfolio.
Consolidate project financial data and provide portfolio-level reporting and analysis.
Assist clients in developing capital expenditure plans and budget forecasts.
Monitor project performance against established financial and operational objectives.
Ensure consistency in cost management practices across all projects within the portfolio.
Support governance, reporting, and project controls requirements for portfolio programs.
Client & Stakeholder Management
Establish and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, designers, contractors, and internal stakeholders.
Serve as a trusted advisor on cost, procurement, and commercial matters.
Present financial analyses, cost plans, risk assessments, and project updates to stakeholders.
Collaborate closely with project managers, workplace teams, and portfolio managers to align project objectives and commercial strategies.
Contribute to process improvement initiatives and best practices within the cost management function.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's Degree in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, Finance, Real Estate, or a related field.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in Cost Management, Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, or Project Controls.
Experience managing costs for occupier, workplace, corporate office, fit-out, renovation, capital improvement, or real estate projects.
Strong understanding of budgeting, forecasting, procurement, cost planning, and contract administration.
Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously.
Advanced knowledge of cost control methodologies and financial reporting.
Strong analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and cost management tools.
Professional fluency in English and Spanish.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Ability to work effectively in fast-paced and client-facing environments.
Preferred Qualifications
RICS Membership (MRICS) or progress toward chartership.
AACE certifications such as CCP (Certified Cost Professional) or equivalent.
Experience supporting corporate real estate portfolios and workplace transformation programs.
Familiarity with leasehold improvements, office fit-outs, workplace occupancy strategies, and portfolio planning.
Experience using CostX, Power BI, Tableau, or other reporting and analytics platforms.
Knowledge of international contract forms and procurement methodologies.
Experience working with multinational corporate clients.
Familiarity with project controls and portfolio management frameworks.

Employment type
Full-time

Work arrangement
No